A mix of old and new in Madrid

A vibrant and dynamic city bursting with the excitement of all facets of life: Madrid is the ideal place to truly experience the magical culture and culinary delights of Spain. Whilst walking along the wide boulevards that criss-cross this city, students will be able to appreciate the architecture of Madrid reflects a number of styles from various historical periods.

Spain's broad sweep of architectural history provides a glorious backdrop to city life, with medieval mansions and royal palaces occasionally punctuated by monuments of modern architecture.

An appreciation of art

Lovers of art are rewarded in this rich cultural city by a bounty of masterpieces housed in the Golden triangle of Art, all situated close together on the Paseo del Prado. They include the world-famous Museo del Prado, Centro de Arte Reina Sofía and Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza. A culinary delight Choice is the key here in Madrid. Traditional tapas or a gastrobar? Roast suckling pig or tuna tataki?

Madrid has gone gourmet with a vengeance, but is somehow hanging on to its roots and updating favourite dishes with an imaginative foreign fusion twist. The oldest restaurant in the world, Botín, dating back to 1725, is home of the suckling pig cooked over vine shoots in the huge oven.

The buzz of the night

In contrast to the sedate grandeur of Madrid’s classic artistic heritage, the famed nightlife of the city is when the city comes alive. Madrid is teeming with glamorous cocktail bars and nightclubs, full of people enjoying non-stop marcha (action).

Intense passion coupled with rhythms of happiness are all essential qualities of flamenco. Madrid is the capital of flamenco. Flamenco is an expression of feelings that moves the spectator. Any day of the week, the city offers a wide range of shows, from grand performances in the city's theatres to small song and dance recitals in tablaos or halls.

Like the dance itself, Madrid captivates all who visit this vibrant city of expression.